I didn't know about using to 2 subs which is ideal; however, in case you missed my reply over at AVS, here it is:

GTP's assessments are correct. From what I read from the gurus on the net, vertical speakers normally shouldn't be laid down if you can help it especially if there are more than 2 drivers in each enclosure.

The M2s are small bookshelfs that are really intended to be used with a sub for fuller sound & are more than satisfying in that type of array - I am most impressed with mine - big sound with small footprint.

M22s sound similar to the M2s as they have the same drivers. They are are good on their own but shine with a sub.

The M3 has the same tweeter but bigger woofer. It therefore sounds similar but also a little different (if that makes any sense).; however, for normal music listening, it doesn't really need a sub as it has a bit of mid bass bump to give the impression of more bass. This actually works quite well, not quite as accurate as the M2 series but still pleasing to listen to.

If your room isn't too large, I'd recommend the M2s with 2 subs & M2 center (if you could use it vertically). I don't have an Axiom center so I can't help you there.

If a sub is not involved, then the M3s would be a better way to go.

Overall the M22s would be best due to higher power handling, but I hear ya when it comes to WAF.

Unfortunately aesthetics are often large problems that need to be overcome. System appearance is very important to me as well...

You would probably blow up your ears first, ha! Having more power than normally required is far preferable to being under powered where clipping of the amp can & will damage drivers.

You will be fine as long as you don't go stupidly loud beyond the limits of the speaker - that would be stupidly loud. Besides, your subs will carry much of the load by contributing a ton to the overall sound field thus relieving stress on the sats...

As Tom indicated, the determining factor is how loud you play a speaker, not the maximum power capacity of the amplifier. Most of the time with a speaker of average sensitivity, such as the M2, the speaker will use about 1 watt for a comfortably loud level. The amplifier can be capable of 200(or 2000)watts, but there's no danger of damage to the speakers(or your hearing)if they're not played at dangerously high levels. Even on brief peaks it's unlikely that more than about 100 watts would be used.

The M2's sound extremely similar, actually pretty much identical to the M22's (A/B listening with some pretty select music is about the only way to tell, IMO) and as you will have subs I would get the M2's and never look back. Tom & John have covered the power question.